Lapidos Adrienne, Garlick James, Rulli Danielle
Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor (Lapidos, Garlick); Ann Arbor VA Medical Center, Ann Arbor (Garlick); Division of Dental Hygiene, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor (Rulli).
Psychiatr Serv. 2023 Nov 1;74(11):1196-1199. doi: 10.1176/appi.ps.20220465. Epub 2023 Mar 14.
Oral health affects whole health and quality of life. This is especially true for people with serious mental illness, a population with heightened risks for oral disease and needs for oral treatment. Studies have previously shown the effectiveness of peer support specialist (PSS)-led wellness interventions. Oral health educational materials and a health education approach were collaboratively developed by a multidisciplinary team and then implemented at one community mental health center and three PSS-run drop-in centers. PSSs provided health education and linked consumers to dental care. Program evaluation (N=41 respondents) indicated the approach's acceptability, feasibility, and sustainability.
